The James T. Callow Folklore Archive

GERMAN CUSTOM

WHEN THE FIRST MALE CHILD IS CIRCUMCISED IN THE HOME BY A
RELIGIOUS PRACTITIONER, THERE ARE SEVEN MALE MEMBERS OF
THE FAMILY PRESENT. THE PATERNAL GRANDFATHER PAYS FOR
THE CIRCUMCISION AND GIVES THE FATHER A NOMINAL FEE IN ORDER
TO BUY THE CHILD INTO THE FAMILY. THIS GIVES THE GRAND-
FATHER AUTHORITY OVER THE CHILD.

Where learned: DETROIT ; MICHIGAN, ASSUMED

Date learned: NOT GIVEN